On Sunday 26th February 2023, I'll be attempting the Malta Half Marathon in aid of V (Verity) Grainger, and her daily struggle against the debilitating effects of MNGIE.

MNGIE is a rare (only around 200 known cases worldwide) and chronically degenerative disease that severely inhibits mitochondrial function (mitochondria being the engine-rooms of your cells that are essential for energy and fundamental to life). Typical and ever-present symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and numbness. Sadly, both V and her sister, Zillah, are two of those known cases.

Those who know V will understand she is an unfailingly wonderful mum to Noah, and loving partner to my old pal, Josh. Her ability to soldier on through daily pain and continue to give her all to her family and those that she teaches is nothing short of an inspiration.

These guys typically avoid the limelight; they are 'salt of the earth' types that find it uncomfortable to ask for help. Yet, they've been left with no choice but to go public and raise funds for enzyme replacement therapy. It's expensive but their only shot at recovery.

At the time of writing, they're at around 25% of their £500,000 total!

Please join me in showing that they're supported in their plight and help me raise £500. They deserve love and kindness from family, friends and strangers alike.

All money raised from my run will be donated directly to Verity's cause.

The family have received national coverage - you can find out more about their story here: Two sisters' fight to survive ultra-rare condition which killed elder sibling and affects just 200 people worldwide